Sri Lanka, June 1 -- Five forests located in environmentally sensitive areas are set to be declared forest reserves on June 5, increasing Sri Lanka's total number of forest reserves to 86.

Environment Minister Dhammika Patabendi announced the move during a media briefing at the Department of Government Information today (01).

The forests earmarked for reserve status are Ritigala, Aliyawetunuwewa, Bulagala, Konkatiyawa and Kallanchi, all of which have been identified as areas requiring enhanced environmental protection.

The Ministry of Environment noted that 81 forests have already been gazetted as reserves under the forestry programme launched in 2025, with the latest additions bringing the total to 86.

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